The Difference Between Open and Closed A.A. Meetings

The purpose of all A.A. group meetings, as the
Preamble states, is for A.A. members to “share their
experience, strength and hope with each other that
they may solve their common problem and help others
to recover from alcoholism.” Toward this end, A.A.
groups have both open and closed meetings.

Closed meetings are for A.A. members
only, or for those who have a drinking problem and “have a desire
to stop drinking.”

Open meetings are available to anyone interested
in Alcoholics Anonymous’ program of recovery from
alcoholism. Non alcoholics may attend open meetings
as observers.

At both types of meetings, the A.A. chairperson
may request that participants confine their discussion
to matters pertaining to recovery from alcoholism.

Whether open or closed, A.A. group meetings are
conducted by A.A. members who determine the format
of their meetings.

from the pamphlet “The A.A. Group”

The A.A. Preamble

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS® is a fellowship of men and women who share their
experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their
common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The
only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are
no dues or fees for A.A. membership; we are self-supporting through our
own contributions. A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination,
politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any
controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary
purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.